QPR have denied reports that three of their players – Paddy Kenny, Clint Hill and Shaun Derry – have been called to give evidence in the FA's John Terry racism inquiry.

More than one report suggested that the Rangers players were ready to back their team-mate Anton Ferdinand's take on his altercation with the Chelsea captain during Sunday's west London derby at Loftus Road.

All three are understood to be unhappy that their names have been dragged into the saga, with Derry not on the field when the alleged incident took place.

A QPR spokesman said: "There is no truth in these stories whatsoever. None of the three players have been called to give evidence or will be called to give evidence."

Terry has said he welcomes the FA launching an inquiry as "an opportunity to clear my name". He will tell the panel that he was responding to what he assumed was an accusation of racist abuse, and was simply denying using the offensive words in the first place.

The Metropolitan Police are also assessing the case following an anonymous complaint from the member of the public.

Meanwhile, the Professional Footballers' Association pledged to assist the Football Association in the Terry inquiry.

The PFA's chief executive, Gordon Taylor, offered his help in the Patrice Evra-Luis Suárez race row two weeks ago and his organisation made it clear on Thursday afternoon that they would be prepared to do the same over events at Loftus Road.

The PFA said in a statement: "There is a proper process to be followed for such serious issues which is governed by the Football Association, as the game's regulator.

"We will assist and adhere to that process in any way which is considered appropriate, mindful that all the players are our members and as such we expect the process to be fair and transparent in establishing the facts in each case."